We asked Annual Meeting workshop organizers to give our blog readers a sneak peek at the events they have planned for AmAnth17. This post was submitted by Jeff Martin, AAA’s director of communications and public affairs and the organizer of “The Message and the Media: Advancing Your Mission through Communications.”

The art of telling a story can be a challenge when the issues are complex and removed from everyday experiences. All too often we are delivering messages to the general public that are bogged down by the complexities of issues, scientific ambiguities, and techno-jargon — “inside” lingo that lands “outside” the comprehension of the audience it is trying to reach.

Anthropologists make remarkable contributions to human understanding and to tackling the world’s most pressing problems. Because of our work, lives are saved through better quality health and medicine, school systems are being improved, environmental resources are managed more effectively, heritage and languages are preserved, products and services we need are better designed, and a culture of innovation is better understood and managed.

Increasingly more and more anthropologists are using stories to share information like this and encourage action. This session will examine case studies to illustrate the critical components of a good story, providing both elements and examples of how anthropologists are effectively using the art of storytelling to better communicate to the general public.

Hit the emotional chord that will make your message motivate! Learn how to state your message in simple, clear and concise language that makes sense to everyone.

2.What is the number one takeaway from your workshop?

The art (and science) of storytelling. Through case studies, simulations, and word-play exercises, participants will learn how to create and communicate specific messages that capture the public’s attention and make their case in a way that will be compelling, understood and, most importantly, accepted. Easy, insider tips on working with the media will also be beneficial.

3.What do past participants think was the best thing about attending this workshop?

“I really enjoyed your workshop and got a lot from it that I can put into practice in my current position.”

“Your experience in public relations and working with social scientists seems invaluable. And as an anthropologist, I am extremely interested in learning more about the kind of public communications work I can be doing.”